This article is from page 18 of the 2012-08-21 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 18 JPG
CLARE students, who may be eligible, have been urged to apply for their third level grants as soon as possible.
The student grant system has been reformed and a unified application process will be implemented by one body, Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI). In January 2011 new grant rates and qualification criteria was introduced.
Ennis councillor Mary Howard (FG) explained, “SUSI will replace the 33 VECs and 33 local authority bodies currently processing applications, so new students should apply for their grant though SUSI,”
She continued, “Students seeking financial assistance can apply now, regardless of whether they have chosen a college course yet. This is a phased scheme, so it is important to point out that students already in receipt of a grant and who are progressing to the next year of their course will continue to be assessed and paid by the existing award- ing authorities. However, if you are changing your course or progressing onto a new course, you should apply to SUSI.”
According to Councillor Johnny Flynn (FG), a recent Bank of Ireland survey has shown the average cost to a family of sending a student to third level away from home is € 40,000.
Students or parents with queries on the application process can contact the SUSI Support Desk on 0761 087874 or by email at support@susi. cdvec.ie.
Further information can be accessed on www.studentfinance.ie. This site gives detailed instructions on how to apply for a maintenance grant and also give information if you are eligible.